Myrcene-containing complex mixtures targeting TRPV1

ABSTRACT

Provided herein are pharmaceutical compositions that comprise myrcene, optionally in admixture with cannabinoids and other terpenes, typically substantially free of THC and THCA, for targeting TRPV1 receptors. Also provided are methods of using the pharmaceutical compositions to desensitize TRPV1 receptors in order to treat pain, cardiovascular diseases such as cardiac hypertrophy, overactive bladder, and chronic cough.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.62/509,546 filed on May 22, 2017, the entire disclosure of which ishereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

1. BACKGROUND

Channels of the Transient Receptor Superfamily (TRP), such as TRPV1,TRPM8 and TRPA1, are non-selective cation channels that conduct calciumand sodium into a range of cell types in mammals. They are present onsensory neurons, and were initially identified as having a role innociception because of their responsiveness at the molecular level toplant secondary metabolites that are nociomimetic (e.g., capsaicin) andto compounds that are otherwise pungent and mimic burning or coolingsensations (e.g., allicin, cinnamaldehyde, menthol).

Because of their role in nociception, TRP channels have been identifiedas targets for treating pain disorders. Both antagonism and agonism ofthe TRP channel have been exploited for pain management. For example,TRPV1 antagonists have utility in acute analgesia. For chronic painmanagement, TRPV1 agonists are typically used. This latter strategyexploits the fact that continued TRPV1 receptor agonism causesdesensitization at the cell surface (receptor internalization,degradation and recycling). Prolonged agonism of TRPV1 also leads tocalcium and sodium cationic overload of the TRPV1-containing sensoryneuron, leading to cell death.

In practice, the use of TRPV1 agonists to effect desensitizationinvolves topical application of high levels of a well-known TRPV1agonist, capsaicin, repeatedly over time to the affected area. Thistherapeutic approach has the benefit of efficacy and low cost. However,it also has weaknesses.

First, high affinity and high specificity TRPV1 agonists target onlyTRPV1-containing nociceptors, leaving other sensory neurons and TRPchannels involved in pain untouched. Second, use of high affinity andhigh specificity TRPV1 agonists such as capsaicin causes high levels ofdiscomfort during initial treatment, in the period prior todesensitization. It is for this reason that post-herpetic pain iscurrently not addressable using TRPV1-mediated desensitization due tothe highly irritant nature of the therapy on sensitive areas such as thegastric mucosa and reproductive tract mucosa. Third, capsaicin-mediateddesensitization treatments are limited to topical use; visceral pain,headache and certain musculoskeletal pain disorders are not addressed bythis therapy.

There is, therefore, a need for therapeutic TRPV1 ligands, such as TRPV1agonists, that are lower affinity than capsaicin. Such lower affinityligands should cause reduced pain during desensitization, therebyallowing topical treatment of sensitive body areas. There is a need forTRPV1 ligands with broader target specificity, able to target multipletypes of TRP-bearing nociceptors, thereby improving the degree of tissuedesensitization. There is also a need for TRPV1 ligands suitable forsystemic administration in addition to topical application.

Such new medications would also be useful for the treatment of variousdiseases associated with TRPV1 other than pain. While TRP channels werefirst shown to be involved in pain and nociception, they now known tohave various other physiological roles, suggesting that they can be atarget for treatment of other diseases. For example, TRP channels havebeen identified as a target for treatment of cardiovascular disease;targeted pharmacological inhibition of TRPV1 has been shown tosignificantly diminish cardiac hypertrophy in a mouse model. See U.S.Pat. No. 9,084,786. Chronic downregulation of TRPV1 levels by receptordesensitization with a TRPV1 agonist would therefore be expected tosimilarly protect, and potentially rescue, cardiac hypertrophy and itsassociated symptoms and outcomes (cardiac remodeling, cardiac fibrosis,apoptosis, hypertension, or heart failure). However, there is currentlyno TRPV1 agonist suitable for systemic administration and suitable forchronic downregulation of TRPV1 in a visceral organ, and there istherefore a need to develop such approaches in an analogous manner tothe chronic pain approaches described above.

Thus, there exists a need to find new compounds that act as TRPV1antagonists and TRPV1 agonists. Such new compounds would provide noveland more effective ways of treating various diseases associated with theTRPV1 channel, including pain disorders and cardiovascular diseases.

2. SUMMARY

Cannabis has been used for millennia to provide analgesia and treatvarious types of pain. As described more fully in the experimentalExamples below, using complex mixtures of terpenes and cannabinoidsmodeled after a known medicinal Cannabis chemo-profile, we have nowdemonstrated that Cannabis exerts its anti-nociceptive effects at leastin part through the TRPV1 receptor. We have further demonstrated thatmyrcene contributes significantly to the observed TRPV1 agonism, andthat like capsaicin, causes TRPV1 desensitization after prolongedexposure.

We have also demonstrated that other terpenes and cannabinoids presentin the complex mixture, including those that do not demonstratesignificant TRPV1 agonist activity on their own, act in combination toincrease the efficacy of myrcene. We have shown that the Cannabis-like‘entourage’ functions, at least in part, to block the multidrugresistance protein-mediated export of the bioactive ligand, myrcene.

Finally, to assess the broader therapeutic potential of myrcene, wegenerated a target analysis and disease-prediction network for myrceneusing a proprietary in silico prediction approach, termed the GBSciences' Network Pharmacology Platform (“NPP”). The presence ofmultiple TRP channels in the network additional to TRPV1 indicates thatefficacy of myrcene will likely extend beyond TRPV1 to other nociceptiveneurons in which the primary pain conduction channel is a distinct TRPreceptor.

Accordingly, in a first aspect, pharmaceutical compositions areprovided. The pharmaceutical composition comprises myrcene and apharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent. The compositionoptionally includes at least one cannabinoid and/or at least one terpeneother than myrcene. The composition comprises no more than 20 differentspecies of cannabinoid and terpene compounds, and is substantially freeof THC.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises no more than 15 speciesof cannabinoid and terpene compounds, no more than 10 species ofcannabinoid and terpene compounds, or no more than 5 species ofcannabinoid and terpene compounds.

In some embodiments, myrcene is present in an amount that is at least10% (w/w) of the total content of cannabinoids and terpenes, at least20% (w/w) of the total content of cannabinoids and terpenes, or at least25% (w/w) of the total content of cannabinoids and terpenes. In certainembodiments, myrcene is present in an amount that is at least 50% (w/w),75% (w/w), or at least 90% (w/w) of the total content of cannabinoidsand terpenes.

In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprises nerolidol.In certain of these embodiments, nerolidol is present in an amount thatis at least 2% (w/w) of the total content of cannabinoids and terpenes,at least 2.5% (w/w) of the total content of cannabinoids and terpenes,or even at least 5% (w/w), 7.5% (w/w), or 10% (w/w) of the total contentof cannabinoids and terpenes.

In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprisescannabigerolic acid (CBGA). In certain embodiments, CBGA is present inan amount that is at least 10% (w/w) of the total content ofcannabinoids and terpenes. In particular embodiments, CBGA is present inan amount that is at least 15% (w/w), 20% (w/w), or 25% (w/w) of thetotal content of cannabinoids and terpenes.

In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprisescannabidiol (CBD). In certain embodiments, CBD is present in an amountthat is at least 2.5% (w/w) of the total content of cannabinoids andterpenes. In particular embodiments, CBD is present in an amount that isat least 5% (w/w), 7.5% (w/w), or 10% (w/w) of the total content ofcannabinoids and terpenes.

In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprisescannabidivarin (CBDV). In certain embodiments, CBDV is present in anamount that is at least 5% (w/w) of the total content of cannabinoidsand terpenes. In particular embodiments, CBDV is present in an amountthat is at least 7.5% (w/w) or 10% (w/w) of the total content ofcannabinoids and terpenes.

In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprisescannabichromene. In certain embodiments, cannabichromene is present inan amount that is at least 1% (w/w), 1.5 (w/w), 2% (w/w), or 2.5% (w/w)of the total content of cannabinoids and terpenes.

In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprisescannabidiolic acid (CBDA). In various embodiments, CBDA is present in anamount that is at least 2.5% (w/w) of the total content of cannabinoidsand terpenes. In certain embodiments, CBDA is present in an amount thatis at least 5% (w/w) or 7.5% (w/w) of the total content of cannabinoidsand terpenes.

In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprisescannabigerol (CBG). In certain embodiments, CBG is present in an amountthat is at least 2.5% (w/w), or 5% (w/w) of the total content ofcannabinoids and terpenes.

In various embodiments, myrcene is present in the pharmaceuticalcomposition at a concentration of 0.025%-5% (w/v). In some embodiments,myrcene is present in the composition at a concentration of 0.025%-2.5%(w/v), or 0.025%-1% (w/v).

In currently preferred embodiments, the cannabinoid compounds andterpene compounds other than myrcene, if present, are present in amountsthat are effective to increase myrcene-dependent TRPV1 calcium flux.

In various embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is formulated fortopical administration. In various embodiments, the pharmaceuticalcomposition is formulated for oral, buccal, or sublingualadministration. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition isformulated for intravenous, intramuscular, or subcutaneousadministration.

In certain embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is formulated foradministration by inhalation. In particular embodiments, thepharmaceutical composition is formulated for administration byvaporizer, nebulizer, or aerosolizer.

In another aspect, methods of effecting TRPV1 desensitization in cellsof a mammalian subject are provided. The method comprises administeringto the subject a myrcene-containing pharmaceutical compositions asdescribed herein in an amount, by a route of administration, and for atime sufficient to cause TRPV1 desensitization in cells within thesubject.

In certain embodiments of the method, the cells are nociceptors. Inparticular embodiments, the nociceptors are peripheral nociceptors. Inparticular embodiments, the nociceptors are visceral nociceptors.

In various embodiments of the method, the pharmaceutical composition isadministered topically.

In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is administeredsystemically. In certain systemic administration embodiments, thepharmaceutical composition is administered intravenously. In otherembodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is administeredsubcutaneously. In other embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition isadministered by inhalation. In some embodiments, the pharmaceuticalcomposition is administered by multiple routes of administration.

In another aspect, methods are provided for treating pain in a mammaliansubject. The method comprises administering to the subject amyrcene-containing pharmaceutical compositions as described herein in anamount, by a route of administration, and for a time sufficient to causeTRPV1 desensitization in nociceptors within the subject.

In some embodiments, the nociceptors are peripheral nociceptors, and thepharmaceutical composition is administered topically. In someembodiments, the nociceptors are visceral nociceptors, and thepharmaceutical composition is administered systemically.

In some embodiments, the pain is neuropathic pain. In particularembodiments, the neuropathic pain is diabetic peripheral neuropathicpain. In certain embodiments, the pain is post-herpetic neuralgia.

In various embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is administeredat least once a day for at least 3 days, at least 5 days, or at least 7days. In particular embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition isadministered at least once a day for more than 7 days.

In various embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is administeredat a dose, by a route of administration, and on a schedule sufficient tomaintain effective levels of myrcene at the nociceptors for at least 3days, at least 5 days, or at least 7 days.

In another aspect, methods are provided for treating cardiac hypertrophyin a mammalian subject. The method comprises administering to a subjecthaving cardiac hypertrophy an anti-hypertrophic effective amount of amyrcene-containing pharmaceutical composition as described herein.

In typical embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is administeredsystemically. In particular embodiments, the pharmaceutical compositionis administered intravenously. In certain embodiments, thepharmaceutical composition is administered subcutaneously. In certainembodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is administered byinhalation. In certain embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition isadministered orally.

In a related aspect, methods are provided for the prophylactic treatmentof cardiac hypertrophy in a mammalian subject. The method comprisesadministering to a subject at risk of cardiac hypertrophy ananti-hypertrophic effective amount of a myrcene-containingpharmaceutical composition as described herein.

In a further aspect, methods of treating overactive bladder in amammalian subject are provided. The method comprises administering tothe subject a therapeutically effective amount of a myrcene-containingpharmaceutical composition as described herein.

In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is administeredsystemically. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition isadministered by bladder irrigation.

In a yet further aspect, methods are provided for treating refractorychronic cough in a mammalian subject. The method comprises administeringto a subject with chronic cough a therapeutically effective amount of amyrcene-containing pharmaceutical composition as described herein.

In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is administeredsystemically. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition isadministered by inhalation.

As further described herein, methods are provided for enhancing thespecific activity of a primary therapeutic agent, such as myrcene,through the addition of a proprietary mixture of cannabinoids andterpenes. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the additionalcompounds included in the active pharmaceutical ingredient inhibitcommon molecular export pathways, mediated by the Multi-drug ResistanceProtein, MRP, transporter family, that are constitutively active in thetarget cell types.

In typical embodiments, the myrcene-containing complex mixtures containcompounds identified from Cannabis spp., broadly divided into twogroups: (a) cannabinoids, and (b) terpenes. The concentrations of thesecompounds in the plant vary widely across Cannabis strains, cultivars,time, cultivation methods and environmental conditions, etc. Complexinteractions among these compounds means that translation from plant toclinic is not straightforward, and underscores the need fordeconstruction, optimization and reconstruction of mixtures of atherapeutically desirable composition. The present disclosure meets theneed by providing the methods for identifying the therapeuticallydesirable composition by deconstruction, optimization and reconstructionprocesses as well as the composition identified by the methods.

As summarized above, the pharmaceutical compositions described hereinare effective for the treatment of various diseases involving TRPchannels, including but not limited to TRPV1. In some aspects, thepharmaceutical compositions can be used for the treatment and preventionof chronic and acute pain in humans and other mammals, for the treatmentof cardiac hypertrophy, for prophylactic treatment of cardiachypertrophy, for treating other aspects of cardiovascular disease, fortreating overactive bladder, and for treating chronic cough.

In particular, the myrcene-containing pharmaceutical compositionsdisclosed herein provide novel and effective ways of treating andpreventing various pain disorders. Such disorders include, but are notlimited to, migraine and other serious headaches, arthritis and otherjoint pain, fibromyalgia, endometriosis, irritable bowel syndrome,chronic interstitial cystitis, vulvodynia, trauma or postsurgical pain,lower back pain and other musculoskeletal disorders, temporomandibularjoint disorder, shingles, sickle cell disease, heart disease (angina),cancer, stroke, diabetes, post-herpetic pain, and others.

The mixtures are expected to replace or supplement other pain approachesavailable in the art. First, currently available approaches cannottarget ion channels such as TRPV1 in both dermal and visceral orinternal locations. Second, compounds and mixtures of the presentinvention activate TRP channels through the use of complex mixturesderived from the Cannabis plant secondary metabolome, by decreasingligand efflux via pathways such as multidrug resistance protein mediatedexport, providing the potential for lower dose schedules of the primaryligand to be deployed. Third, the potential for TRPV1-mediatedapproaches to post-herpetic pain which require exposure of sensitivemucosa to highly irritant doses of capsaicin may be improved upon withthe pharmaceutical compositions described herein.

Furthermore, the compounds and their mixtures in the present inventionare expected to replace or supplement marijuana-based medicinesavailable in the art, which are still imperfect, as follows: First, themethod ‘homes in’ on desirable compositions of cannabinoids/terpenes forpain therapy, which could later be presented either in bespoke syntheticcompositions or in judging/ranking the merits of certain naturallyoccurring Cannabis strains/cultivars for therapeutic applications. Theseare an improvement over current prescribing or strain selectionmethodologies, which are based largely on anecdotal evidence. Second,the method provides for the design of synthetic compositions which canbe manufactured consistently and in a contaminant free manner, which isan improvement over the current state of the medical marijuanaproduction process where batch-to-batch consistency is not assured (dueto differences in growing conditions, genetic/epigenetic and metabolicvariance between plants and variations in extraction methods) and wheremicrobial and chemical contamination is a persistent issue. Third, thesingle compounds and bespoke mixtures presented here are free of themajor psychoactive cannabinoid, delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).These mixtures therefore present a decreased regulatory and ethicalburden when compared to medical marijuana as it is commonly available.Moreover, since any addictive or reinforcing potential for Cannabis islikely to reside in the presence of the major psychoactive ingredient,the bespoke mixtures presented here improve over opioid-basedtherapeutics for pain based on a decreased likelihood for patientaddiction. Accordingly, the present invention has great value for thetreatment and prevention of various pain disorders.

In addition, the myrcene-containing mixtures disclosed herein providenovel methods for treating cardiovascular disease including cardiachypertrophy, including processes of cardiac remodeling, cardiacfibrosis, apoptosis, hypertension, or heart failure.

The compounds and mixtures disclosed herein are expected to replace orsupplement other cardiovascular therapy approaches available in the art,which are still imperfect as follows: (1) the need for therapeuticapproaches to downregulating TRPV1 in visceral locations, and (3) theneed for therapeutic approaches to diminishing or reversing theprocesses of cardiac remodeling, cardiac fibrosis, apoptosis,hypertension, or heart failure. Accordingly, the present invention haspotential value for the treatment and prevention of variouscardiovascular disorders.

These and other aspects of the invention are described in further detailbelow.

3. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates that the inducible expression of TRPV1 in a non-TRPV1containing cell type confers capsaicin-sensitive calcium flux responsesupon the cells. Here, HEK cells transfected with a rat TRPV1 gene underthe control of a tetracycline-inducible promoter were induced totranscribe the TRPV1 gene and synthesize TRPV1 protein through theapplication of tetracycline for 16 h at 1 micromolar. This establishesthat the experimental system used in the following studies clearly, andspecifically, reports TRPV1-specific calcium fluxes, since capsaicin isa specific ligand for TRPV1.

FIG. 2A-2C illustrate that terpenes contribute significantly to calciumfluxes via TRPV1 induced by Cannabis-derived mixtures of cannabinoidsand terpenes. FIG. 2A shows calcium influx (relative fluorescence unit,“Fluo-4 RFU”) over time (in seconds, “s”) in HEK cells transfected witha construct encoding TRPV1, first without stimulus (“NS”), then afterapplication of vehicle (“veh”), and after application of Strain AMixture (“Strain mixture”). FIG. 2B shows calcium influx inTRPV1-expressing HEK cells after application of a mixture that includesonly the cannabinoids present in the Strain A Mixture (“CannabinoidMixture”). FIG. 2C shows calcium influx in TRPV1-expressing HEK cellsafter application of a mixture that includes only the terpenes presentin the Strain A Mixture (“Terpene Mixture”).

FIGS. 3A-3L illustrate that individual terpenes differentiallycontribute to calcium fluxes induced by the Terpene Mixture via TRPV1.FIG. 3A presents calcium influx over time in HEK cells transfected witha construct encoding TRPV1 without stimulus (“NS”), after application ofvehicle (“veh”), and after application of the Terpene Mixture (“allterpenes”). FIGS. 3B-3L graph baseline-subtracted calcium influx overtime in the TRPV1-expressing HEK cells separately for each of theterpenes present in the Terpene Mixture used in FIG. 3A.

FIG. 4 illustrates that myrcene contributes significantly toTRPV1-mediated calcium responses seen with the Terpene Mixture(“Terpenes”), but does not constitute 100% of the signal. Data wereobtained from HEK cells transfected with and inducibly expressing TRPV1.

FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate that the measured calcium responses depend whollyor in part on the presence of the TRPV1 ion channel. FIG. 5A showscalcium influx over time in HEK wild type cells (“HEK wild type”) and inHEK cells transfected with and induced to express TRPV1 through theapplication of tetracycline (1 μM for 16 hours) (“HEK+TRPV1”) afterapplication of the complete Strain A mixture. FIG. 5B shows calciuminflux over time in HEK wild type cells and in HEK+TRPV1 cells afterapplication of a mixture that includes only the cannabinoids present inthe Strain A Mixture (“Cannabinoid Mixture”). FIG. 5C shows calciuminflux over time in HEK wild type cells and in HEK+TRPV1 cells afterapplication of a mixture that includes only the terpenes present in theStrain A Mixture (“Terpene Mixture”). All data are vehicle subtracted.

FIGS. 6A-6D illustrate that the myrcene-induced calcium influx dependswholly or in part on the presence of the TRPV1 ion channel. FIGS. 6A-6Bshow calcium influx over time in HEK wild type cells (“HEK wild type”)and in HEK+TRPV1 cells after application of myrcene at variousconcentrations: 3.5 μg/mg (FIG. 6A), 1.75 μg/mg (FIG. 6B), 0.875 μg/mg(FIG. 6C), and 0.43 μg/mg (FIG. 6D). All data are baseline subtracted.

FIGS. 7A-7B illustrates that the measured myrcene-induced calcium influxresponses are inhibited by a specific pharmacological inhibitor of theTRPV1 ion channel. FIG. 7A shows calcium influx in TRPV1-expressing HEKcells over time (in seconds) in response to application of vehicle(“veh”), myrcene at 3.5 μg/ml, and further addition of the TRPV1inhibitor, capsazepine (10 μM). FIG. 7B shows calcium influx inTRPV1-transfected HEK cells over time (in seconds) in response toapplication of vehicle (“veh”), myrcene at 3.5 μg/ml, and furtheraddition of phosphate-buffered saline (“PBS”) instead of capsazepine.Data are baseline-subtracted.

FIGS. 8A-8D illustrate that when myrcene is applied in the absence ofexternal calcium, at high concentrations it can induce TRPV1-dependentcalcium release from internal stores. FIGS. 8A-D present cytosoliccalcium influxes over time in transfected HEK cells expressing TRPV1(“HEK TRPV1”) or a wild-type HEK cells (“HEK wild type”) in response tovarious concentrations of myrcene—3.5 μg/ml (FIG. 8A), 1.75 μg/ml (FIG.8B), 0.875 μg/ml (FIG. 8C) and 0.43 μg/ml (FIG. 8D) of myrcene.Experiments were conducted in the absence of external calcium in themedium. All data are baseline subtracted.

FIGS. 9A-9G illustrate that cannabinoids differentially contribute tocalcium fluxes via TRPV1. FIGS. 9A-9G show calcium influx over time(seconds, “sec”) in HEK wild type cells and HEK cells expressing TRPV1individually for each of the cannabinoids present in the CannabinoidMixture tested in FIG. 2B. All stimuli were added at 20 seconds. Alldata are baseline subtracted.

FIG. 10 illustrates that the specific activity of bioactive ligands suchas myrcene may be enhanced by co-incubation of a Cannabis-like‘entourage’, through blocking of multidrug resistance protein-mediatedexport of the bioactive ligand. Multi-drug Resistance Protein(MRP)-mediated efflux rates of the fluorescent marker CFDA wereevaluated by flow cytometry in the presence of vehicle only (“veh”), theknown MRP inhibitor, chloroquine (“Chloroquine”), and in the presence of“CBMIX”, a mixture of all of the cannabinoids and terpenes other thanmyrcene in the Strain A Mixture. These data suggest that if used as anadjunct to a primary therapeutic compound, co-application of a pluralityof cannabinoids and/or terpenes would tend to delay the efflux of thetherapeutic compound from the cell and this increase the specificactivity of the primary therapeutic compound per unit dose.

FIG. 11 illustrates that TTD Therapeutic Target Data Base EnrichmentAnalysis tends to prioritize Myrcene over Nerolidol for development inpain and cardiovascular areas. In addition, myrcene contributessignificantly to the predicted disease target set for native Cannabis.

FIG. 12 illustrates that diverse ion channel targets are predicted fordirect or indirect modulation by myrcene.

FIG. 13 illustrates that limited ion channel targets or CNS-activetargets are predicted for direct or indirect modulation by nerolidol.

FIGS. 14A-14B illustrate the comparative desensitization patterns forTRPV1 initiated by capsaicin versus myrcene. FIG. 14A graphsdose-dependent calcium responses to various concentrations of myrceneand capsaicin by plotting area under the calcium influx curves (AUC)measured 20 to 300 seconds after application of the respective TRPV1agonist (y-axis) with respect to corresponding concentrations (x-axis).FIG. 14B provides AUCs of calcium influx curves measured inTRPV1-expressing HEK cells before and 24 hours after application theionophore ionomycin, myrcene or capsaicin. The percentage suppression inthe values measured before and after the application are also provided(Supp %).

FIG. 15 lists the compounds used in the experiments described.

FIGS. 16A-16B show a target analysis and disease-prediction network fortwo terpenes, myrcene (FIG. 16A) and nerolidol (FIG. 16B). The data weregenerated in silico using GB Sciences' Network Pharmacology Platform(“NPP”). The presence of multiple TRP channels in the network indicatesthat efficacy of myrcene will likely extend beyond TRPV1 to othernociceptive neurons in which the primary pain-conducting channel is adistinct TRP.

FIG. 17 illustrates one mechanism by which the cannabinoids and terpenesother than myrcene in the Strain A Mixture enhance the TRPV1 agonistactivity of myrcene, through blocking of multidrug resistanceprotein-mediated export of the bioactive ligand (see FIG. 10).

FIG. 18 illustrates the predicted potential of myrcene, and mixturescontaining myrcene, to target multiple receptors in the nociceptivenerve bundle.

FIGS. 19A-19C illustrate TRPV1 ion channel activation in single HEK293cells overexpressing TRPV1 after application of increasing amounts ofmyrcene (M). FIG. 19A shows 5 μM myrcene, FIG. 19B shows 10 μM myrcene,and FIG. 19C shows 150 μM myrcene.

FIGS. 20A-20E illustrate electrophysiology data in single HEK293 cellsoverexpressing TRPV1 after addition of 5 μM myrcene (M) and 1 μMcapsaicin (Cap). FIGS. 20A and 20B show the inward and outward ioncurrent (nA) of the cell before and after myrcene and capsaicinaddition. FIG. 20B is an enlarged view of FIG. 20A to show themyrcene-induced response. FIGS. 20C-20E show the current/voltage traceof the cell before myrcene or capsaicin is added (FIG. 20C), or after 5μM myrcene (FIG. 20D) or 1 μM capsaicin (FIG. 20E).

4. DETAILED DESCRIPTION 4.1. Definitions

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the meaning commonly understood by a person skilled in the art towhich this invention belongs. As used herein, the following terms havethe meanings ascribed to them below.

“Myrcene” (synonymously “β-myrcene”) is7-methyl-3-methylideneocta-1,6-diene.

“Strain A Mixture” means a mixture of cannabidivarin (CBDV),cannabichromene (CBC), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA),cannabigerol (CBG), cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), cannabinol (CBN),alpha-bisabolol (α-bisabolol), alpha-humulene (α-humulene), alpha-pinene(α-pinene), beta-caryophyllene (β-caryophyllene), myrcene,(+)-beta-pinene (β-pinene), camphene, limonene, linalool, and nerolidol.See Table 1 and FIG. 15. The composition of the mixture is based uponthe actual chemo-profile of a Cannabis sativa cultivar currently usedmedicinally in Nevada, USA. Strain chemo-profile data was expressed as %mass and mg/g abundance, and these amounts were converted to amounts tobe included in the mixture for exposure to cultured cells. The actualchemo-profile was modified in the Strain A Mixture by deliberateomission of THC and THCA, and omission of certain labile or insolublecomponents.

“Terpene Mixture” means a mixture containing only the terpenes of theStrain A Mixture—alpha-bisabolol (α-bisabolol), alpha-humulene(α-humulene), alpha-pinene (α-pinene), beta-caryophyllene(β-caryophyllene), myrcene, (+)-beta-pinene (β-pinene), camphene,limonene, linalool, and nerolidol.

“Selected Terpene” means nerolidol.

“Cannabinoid Mixture” means a mixture containing only the cannabinoidsof the Strain A Mixture—cannabidivarin (CBDV), cannabichromene (CBC),cannabidiol (CBD), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabigerol (CBG),cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), and cannabinol (CBN).

“Selected Cannabinoid” means cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), cannabidiol(CBD), cannabidivarin (CBDV), cannabichromene, cannabidiolic acid, orcannabigerol (CBG).

“Pharmaceutically active ingredient” (synonymously, activepharmaceutical ingredient) means any substance or mixture of substancesintended to be used in the manufacture of a drug product and that, whenused in the production of a drug, becomes an active ingredient in thedrug product. Such substances are intended to furnish pharmacologicalactivity or other direct effect in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation,treatment or prevention of disease or to affect the structure andfunction of the body. Such substances or mixture of substances arepreferably generated in compliance with the Current Good ManufacturingPractice (CGMP) regulations pursuant to Section 501(a)(2)(B) of theFederal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.

A pharmaceutically active ingredient is “substantially free of THC” ifthe ingredient contains less than 0.3% (w/w) of delta-9tetrahydrocannabinol. A pharmaceutical composition is “substantiallyfree of THC” if the pharmaceutical composition contains less than 0.3%(w/v) of delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol.

A “Cannabis sativa extract” is a composition obtained from Cannabissativa plant materials by fluid and/or gas extraction, for example bysupercritical fluid extraction (SFE) with CO₂. The Cannabis sativaextract typically contains myrcene, selected cannabinoids, selectedterpenes, and also other terpenes, phytocannabinoids, and secondarymetabolites. For example, the Cannabis sativa extract can include one ormore of terpinene, caryophyllene, geraniol, guaiol, isopulegoll,ocimene, cymene, eucalyptol, and terpinolene.

“Pain disorders” include various diseases causing pain as one of theirsymptoms—including, but not limited to, those associated with strains,sprains, arthritis or other joint pain, bruising, backaches,fibromyalgia, endometriosis, pain after surgery, diabetic neuropathy,trigeminal neuralgia, postherpetic neuralgia, cluster headaches,psoriasis, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic interstitial cystitis,vulvodynia, trauma, musculoskeletal disorders, shingles, sickle celldisease, heart disease, cancer, stroke, or mouth sores due tochemotherapy or radiation.

The terms “treatment,” “treating,” and the like are used herein togenerally mean obtaining a desired pharmacologic and/or physiologiceffect. The effect may be prophylactic, in terms of completely orpartially preventing a disease, condition, or symptoms thereof, and/ormay be therapeutic in terms of a partial or complete cure for a diseaseor condition and/or adverse effect, such as a symptom, attributable tothe disease or condition. “Treatment” as used herein covers anytreatment of a disease or condition of a mammal, particularly a human,and includes: (a) preventing the disease or condition from occurring ina subject which may be predisposed to the disease or condition but hasnot yet been diagnosed as having it; (b) inhibiting the disease orcondition (e.g., arresting its development); or (c) relieving thedisease or condition (e.g., causing regression of the disease orcondition, providing improvement in one or more symptoms). Improvementsin any conditions can be readily assessed according to standard methodsand techniques known in the art. The population of subjects treated bythe method includes subjects suffering from the undesirable condition ordisease, as well as subjects at risk for development of the condition ordisease.

By the term “therapeutically effective dose” or “therapeuticallyeffective amount” is meant a dose or amount that produces the desiredeffect for which it is administered. The exact dose or amount willdepend on the purpose of the treatment, and will be ascertainable by oneskilled in the art using known techniques (see, e.g., Lloyd (2012) TheArt, Science and Technology of Pharmaceutical Compounding, FourthEdition). A therapeutically effective amount can be a “prophylacticallyeffective amount” as prophylaxis can be considered therapy.

The term “sufficient amount” means an amount sufficient to produce adesired effect.

The term “ameliorating” refers to any therapeutically beneficial resultin the treatment of a disease state, e.g., an immune disorder, includingprophylaxis, lessening in the severity or progression, remission, orcure thereof.

4.2. Other Interpretational Conventions

Ranges recited herein are understood to be shorthand for all of thevalues within the range, inclusive of the recited endpoints. Forexample, a range of 1 to 50 is understood to include any number,combination of numbers, or sub-range from the group consisting of 1, 2,3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22,23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40,41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, and 50.

Unless otherwise indicated, reference to a compound that has one or morestereo centers intends each stereoisomer, and all combinations ofstereoisomers, thereof.

4.3. Overview of Experimental Results

Cannabis has been used for millennia to provide analgesia and treatvarious types of pain. We sought to determine whether Cannabis exertsits anti-nociceptive effects at least in part through the TRPV1receptor, and if so, to determine which of the hundreds of compounds ina medicinal Cannabis extract contribute to the effect.

As described more fully in the Example section below, we prepared acomplex mixture of cannabinoids and terpenes, the Strain A Mixture,based upon the actual chemo-profile of a Cannabis sativa cultivarcurrently used medicinally in Nevada, USA. Strain chemo-profile data wasexpressed as % mass and mg/g abundance, and these amounts were convertedto amounts to be included in the mixture. The actual chemo-profile wasmodified in the Strain A Mixture by deliberate omission of THC and THCA,to eliminate psychoactive components, and omission of certain labile orinsoluble components. We also prepared complex mixtures containingsubsets of the compounds in the Strain A Mixture: CBMIX, CannabinoidMixture and Terpene Mixture. See Table 1.

To create an in vitro assay for TRPV-1 agonist activity, we transfectedHEK cells with an expression vector that confers tetracycline-inducibleexpression of TRPV1 on the cells, and used a standard fluorescentreporter of intracellular calcium levels (fluo-4 acetoxymethyl ester)(“fluo-4”). FIG. 1 illustrates that the inducible expression of TRPV1confers capsaicin-sensitive calcium flux responses upon HEK cells,establishing that the experimental system clearly reports TRPV1-specificcalcium fluxes.

We tested the Strain A mixture in the same assay, and found that theCannabis-derived mixture of cannabinoids and terpenes (Strain A mixture)causes significant calcium flux into the TRPV1-transfected HEK cells(FIG. 2A). We confirmed that the calcium fluxes observed with thecomplete Strain A mixture depends on the presence of the TRPV1 receptorby comparing signals obtained in parallel with untransfected wild typeHEK cells (FIG. 5A).

Using sub-mixtures, we determined that the terpenes in the Strain Amixture contribute significantly to the observed effect (FIG. 2C). Moremodest influx was caused by the cannabinoids present in the Strain Amixture (FIG. 2B). The signal observed using the Terpene Mixture and theCannabinoid Mixture were dependent on the presence of the TRPV1 receptor(FIGS. 5B, 5C).

We then tested individual terpenes present in the Strain A mixture andfound that individual terpenes differentially contribute to calciumfluxes via TRPV1 (FIGS. 3A-3L). Myrcene contributes significant agonistactivity (FIG. 3C), but does not constitute 100% of the signal (FIG. 4).Nerolidol was observed to have more modest agonist activity when testedalone (FIG. 31). The myrcene-induced influx of calcium wasdose-dependent, and dependent wholly or in part on expression of TRPV1receptors (FIG. 6). We further confirmed the dependence on TRPV1 usingthe TRPV1 inhibitor, capsazepine; FIG. 7 illustrates that themyrcene-induced calcium influx responses are inhibited by capsazepine.

We demonstrated that in the absence of extracellular calcium (achievedby construction of a nominally calcium-free extracellular milieusupplemented with 1 mM EGTA), at high concentrations myrcene can induceTRPV1-dependent calcium release from internal stores (FIG. 8).

We compared the acute agonist potency of myrcene to capsaicin and foundthat higher concentrations of myrcene were needed to induce the samecalcium influx as capsaicin (FIG. 14A). The data suggest that myrcene isan effective TRPV1 agonist that works similarly to capsaicin, but withlower potency. And like capsaicin, myrcene causes desensitization after24 hour exposure.

We performed similar experiments to determine the contribution ofindividual cannabinoids in the Strain A mixture, and found that thatcannabinoids differentially contribute to calcium fluxes via TRPV1(FIGS. 9A-9G). Of the cannabinoids, cannabigerolic acid (CBGA),cannabidiol (CBD), cannabidivarin (CBDV), cannabichromene, andcannabidiolic acid were most potent when tested individually in theassay,

To explore the mechanism by which the complex mixture of terpenes andcannabinoids in the Strain A mixture provides a higher signal thanmyrcene alone, we tested whether the Cannabis-like ‘entourage’ might beacting to block the multidrug resistance protein-mediated export of thebioactive ligand, myrcene. Multi-drug Resistance Protein (MRP)-mediatedefflux rates of the fluorescent marker CFDA were evaluated by flowcytometry in the presence of vehicle only (“veh”), the known MRPinhibitor, chloroquine (“Chloroquine”), and in the presence of “CBMIX”,a mixture of all of the cannabinoids and terpenes in the Strain AMixture other than myrcene. The data, shown in FIG. 10, suggest that ifused as an adjunct to a primary therapeutic compound, co-application ofa plurality of cannabinoids and/or terpenes would tend to delay theefflux of the therapeutic compound from the cell and thus increase thespecific activity of the primary therapeutic compound per unit dose.

In order to assess the broader therapeutic potential of myrcene andnerolidol, the two terpenes in our original Cannabis Strain A Mixturewith significant TRPV1 agonist effects, we used a proprietary in silicoprediction approach, termed the GB Sciences' Network PharmacologyPlatform (“NPP”).

FIG. 11 illustrates that Therapeutic Target Database enrichment analysistends to prioritize myrcene over nerolidol for development in pain andcardiovascular areas. In addition, myrcene contributes significantly tothe predicted disease target set for native Cannabis. FIG. 12illustrates that diverse ion channel targets are predicted for direct orindirect modulation by myrcene, whereas FIG. 13 illustrates that a morelimited set of ion channel targets or CNS-active targets are predictedfor direct or indirect modulation by nerolidol

FIG. 16 A shows a target analysis and disease-prediction network formyrcene using GB Sciences' NPP. The presence of multiple TRP channels inthe network indicates that efficacy of myrcene will likely extend beyondTRPV1 to other nociceptive neurons in which the primary pain conductionchannel is a distinct TRP receptor.

4.4. Pharmaceutical Compositions

Accordingly, in a first aspect, pharmaceutical compositions areprovided. The composition comprises myrcene and a pharmaceuticallyacceptable carrier or diluent. The composition optionally comprises atleast one cannabinoid and/or at least one terpene other than myrcene.The composition comprises no more than 20 different species ofcannabinoid and terpene compounds, and in typical embodiments issubstantially free of THC.

In various embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprises no morethan 19 different species of cannabinoid and terpene compounds, 18different species, 17 different species, 16 different species, 15different species, 14 different species, 13 different species, 12different species, 11 different species, or no more than 10 differentspecies. In certain embodiments, the pharmaceutical compositioncomprises no more than 9 different species of cannabinoid and terpenecompounds, no more than 8 different species, no more than 7 differentspecies, no more than 6 different species, or no more than 5 differentspecies. In particular embodiments, the pharmaceutical compositioncomprises no more than 4 different species of cannabinoid and terpenecompounds, no more than 3 different species, or no more than 2 differentspecies. In a select embodiment, the pharmaceutical compositioncomprises no more than 1 species of cannabinoid and terpene compounds,which species is myrcene.

In various embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprises atleast 2 different species of cannabinoid and terpene compounds, at least3 different species, at least 4 different species, at least 5 differentspecies, at least 6 different species, at least 7 different species, atleast 8 different species, at least 9 different species, or at least 10different species, in each case comprising no more than 20 differentspecies. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprisesat least 11 different species of cannabinoid and terpene compounds, atleast 12 different species, at least 13 different species, at least 14different species, or at least 15 different species, in each casecomprising no more than 20 different species.

In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprises 20different species of cannabinoid and terpene compounds, 19 differentspecies, 18 different species, 17 different species, 16 differentspecies, 15 different species, 14 different species, 13 differentspecies, 12 different species, 11 different species, or 10 differentspecies. In various embodiments, the pharmaceutical compositioncomprises 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, or 2 different species of cannabinoid andterpene compounds.

In various embodiments, myrcene is present in an amount that is at least10% (w/w) of the total content of cannabinoids and terpenes in thepharmaceutical composition. In some embodiments, myrcene is present inan amount that is at least 15% (w/w), at least 20% (w/w), at least 25%(w/w), at least 30% (w/w), at least 35% (w/w), at least 40% (w/w), atleast 45% (w/w), or at least 50% (w/w) of the total content ofcannabinoids and terpenes in the pharmaceutical composition. In certainembodiments, myrcene is present in an amount that is at least 55% (w/w),at least 60% (w/w), at least 65% (w/w), at least 70% (w/w), at least 75%(w/w), at least 80% (w/w), at least 85% (w/w), or at least 90% (w/w) ofthe total content of cannabinoids and terpenes in the pharmaceuticalcomposition. In particular embodiments, myrcene is present in an amountthat is at least 95% (w/w) of the total content of cannabinoids andterpenes in the pharmaceutical composition.

In various embodiments, myrcene is present in the pharmaceuticalcomposition at a concentration of 0.025%-5% (w/v). In some embodiments,myrcene is present in the pharmaceutical composition at a concentrationof 0.025%-2.5% (w/v). In some embodiments, myrcene is present in thepharmaceutical composition at a concentration of 0.025%-1% (w/v). Insome embodiments, myrcene is present in the pharmaceutical compositionat a concentration of 2% (w/v), 3% (w/v), 4% (w/v), 5% (w/v), 6% (w/v),7% (w/v), 8% (w/v), 9% (w/v), or 10% (w/v).

In some embodiments comprising at least two different species ofcannabinoid and terpene compounds, at least one of the compounds otherthan myrcene is a Selected Cannabinoid. In certain embodimentscomprising at least two different species of cannabinoid and terpenecompounds, all of the compounds other than myrcene are SelectedCannabinoids.

In various embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprisescannabigerolic acid (CBGA). In some embodiments, CBGA is present in anamount that is at least 10% (w/w) of the total content of cannabinoidsand terpenes in the pharmaceutical composition. In some embodiments,CBGA is present in an amount that is at least 11% (w/w), 12% (w/w), 13%(w/w), 14% (w/w) or 15% (w/w) of the total content of cannabinoids andterpenes in the pharmaceutical composition. In some embodiments, CBGA ispresent in an amount that is at least 20% (w/w), 21% (w/w), 22% (w/w),23% (w/w), 24% (w/w) or 25% (w/w) of the total content of cannabinoidsand terpenes in the pharmaceutical composition.

In various embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprisescannabidiol (CBD). In some embodiments, CBD is present in an amount thatis at least 2.5% (w/w) of the total content of cannabinoids and terpenesin the pharmaceutical composition. In some embodiments, CBD is presentin an amount that is at least 3% (w/w), 3.5% (w/w), 4% (w/w), 4.5% (w/w)or 5% (w/w) of the total content of cannabinoids and terpenes in thepharmaceutical composition. In certain embodiments, CBD is present in anamount that is at least 7.5% (w/w) or 10% (w/w) of the total content ofcannabinoids and terpenes in the pharmaceutical composition.

In various embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprisescannabidivarin (CBDV). In some embodiments, CBDV is present in an amountthat is at least 5% (w/w) of the total content of cannabinoids andterpenes in the pharmaceutical composition. In some embodiments, CBDV ispresent in an amount that is at least 7.5% (w/w), 10% (w/w), or 15%(w/w) of the total content of cannabinoids and terpenes in thepharmaceutical composition.

In various embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprisescannabichromene. In some embodiments, cannabichromene is present in anamount that is at least 1% (w/w) of the total content of cannabinoidsand terpenes in the pharmaceutical composition. In some embodiments,cannabichromene is present in an amount that is at least 1.5% (w/w), atleast 2% (w/w), or at least 2.5% (w/w) of the total content ofcannabinoids and terpenes in the pharmaceutical composition. In someembodiments, cannabichromene is present in an amount that is at least 5%(w/w), 7.5% (w/w) or 10% (w/w) of the total content of cannabinoids andterpenes in the pharmaceutical composition.

In various embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprisescannabidiolic acid (CBDA). In some embodiments, CBDA is present in anamount that is at least 2.5% (w/w) of the total content of cannabinoidsand terpenes in the pharmaceutical composition. In some embodiments,CBDA is present in an amount that is at least 5% (w/w), 7.5% (w/w), or10% (w/w) of the total content of cannabinoids and terpenes in thepharmaceutical composition.

In various embodiments, the composition comprises cannabigerol (CBG). Insome embodiments, CBG is present in an amount that is at least 2.5%(w/w) of the total content of cannabinoids and terpenes in thepharmaceutical composition. In some embodiments, CBG is present in anamount that is at least 5% (w/w) of the total content of cannabinoidsand terpenes in the pharmaceutical composition.

In some embodiments comprising at least two different species ofcannabinoid and terpene compounds, at least one of the compounds otherthan myrcene is a Selected Terpene. In certain embodiments comprising atleast two different species of cannabinoid and terpene compounds, all ofthe compounds other than myrcene are Selected Terpenes.

In various embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprisesnerolidol. In some embodiments, nerolidol is present in an amount thatis at least 2% (w/w) of the total content of cannabinoids and terpenesin the pharmaceutical composition. In some embodiments, nerolidol ispresent in an amount that is at least 2.5% (w/w), 3% (w/w), 3.5% (w/w),4% (w/w), 4.5% (w/w) or 5% (w/w) of the total content of cannabinoidsand terpenes in the pharmaceutical composition. In particularembodiments, nerolidol is present in an amount that is at least 7.5%(w/w) or 10% (w/w) of the total content of cannabinoids and terpenes inthe pharmaceutical composition.

In typical embodiments, the cannabinoid and terpene compounds other thanmyrcene are present in amounts that are effective to increasemyrcene-dependent TRPV1 calcium flux.

4.4.1. Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) Content

In typical embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is eithercompletely or substantially free of delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC),and thus lacks psychoactive effects, which offers certain regulatory andother physiological advantages.

In certain embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is notsubstantially free of delta-9 THC. In certain of these embodiments, thepharmaceutical composition comprises 1-10 percent by weight (wt %) THC.In specific embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprises 2-9 wt% THC, 3-8 wt % THC, 4-7 wt % THC. In certain embodiments, thepharmaceutical composition comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 wt% THC.

4.4.2. Other Components

In some embodiments, myrcene, optional cannabinoids, and optionalterpenes other than myrcene collectively constitute less than 100% byweight (wt %) of the active pharmaceutical ingredient in thepharmaceutical composition.

In various such embodiments, myrcene, optional cannabinoids, andoptional terpenes other than myrcene collectively constitute at least75% by weight, but less than 100 wt %, of the pharmaceutically activeingredient. In specific embodiments, myrcene, optional cannabinoids, andoptional terpenes other than myrcene collectively constitute at least80%, at least at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 91%, at least 92%, atleast 93%, at least 94%, or at least 95% by weight, but less than 100 wt%, of the active ingredient. In particular embodiments, myrcene,optional cannabinoids, and optional terpenes other than myrcenecollectively constitute at least 96%, at least 97%, at least 98%, or atleast 99% by weight, but less than 100 wt %, of the active ingredient.

In embodiments in which myrcene, optional cannabinoids, and optionalterpenes other than myrcene collectively constitute less than 100% byweight (wt %) of the pharmaceutically active ingredient, the activeingredient further comprises compounds other than myrcene, optionalcannabinoids, and optional terpenes other than myrcene. In typical suchembodiments, all other compounds in the active ingredient areextractable from Cannabis sativa. In specific embodiments, all othercompounds in the active ingredient are present in an extract made fromCannabis sativa.

In some embodiments, myrcene, optional cannabinoids, and optionalterpenes other than myrcene collectively constitute less than 100% (w/v)of the pharmaceutically active ingredient.

4.4.3. Formulation

The pharmaceutical composition can be in any form appropriate foradministration to humans or non-human animals, including a liquid, anoil, an emulsion, a gel, a colloid, an aerosol, or a solid, and can beformulated for administration by any route of administration appropriatefor human or veterinary medicine, including enteral and parenteralroutes of administration.

4.4.3.1. Pharmacological Compositions Adapted for Administration byInhalation

In various embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is formulated foradministration by inhalation.

In certain embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is formulated foradministration by a vaporizer. In certain embodiments, thepharmaceutical composition is formulated for administration by anebulizer. In particular embodiments, the nebulizer is a jet nebulizeror an ultrasonic nebulizer. In certain embodiments, the pharmaceuticalcomposition is formulated for administration by an aerosolizer. Incertain embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is formulated foradministration by dry powder inhaler.

In some embodiments, unit dosage forms of the pharmaceutical compositiondescribed herein are provided that are adapted for administration of thepharmaceutical composition by vaporizer, nebulizer, aerosolizer, or drypowder inhaler. In some embodiments, the dosage form is a vial, anampule, optionally scored to allow user opening

In various embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is an aqueoussolution, and can be administered as a nasal or pulmonary spray.Preferred systems for dispensing liquids as a nasal spray are disclosedin U.S. Pat. No. 4,511,069. Such formulations may be convenientlyprepared by dissolving compositions according to the present inventionin water to produce an aqueous solution, and rendering the solutionsterile. The formulations may be presented in multi-dose containers, forexample in the sealed dispensing system disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.4,511,069. Other suitable nasal spray delivery systems have beendescribed in Transdermal Systemic Medication, Y. W. Chien Ed., ElsevierPublishers, New York, 1985; M. Naef et al. Development andpharmacokinetic characterization of pulmonal and intravenousdelta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in humans, J. Pharm. Sci. 93, 1176-84(2004); and in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,778,810; 6,080,762; 7,052,678; and8,277,781 (each incorporated herein by reference). Additional aerosoldelivery forms may include, e.g., compressed air-, jet-, ultrasonic-,and piezoelectric nebulizers, which deliver the biologically activeagent dissolved or suspended in a pharmaceutical solvent, e.g., water,ethanol, or a mixture thereof.

Mucosal formulations are, in certain embodiments, administered as drypowder formulations e.g., comprising the biologically active agent in adry, usually lyophilized, form of an appropriate particle size, orwithin an appropriate particle size range, for intranasal delivery.Minimum particle size appropriate for deposition within the nasal orpulmonary passages is often about 0.5 micron mass median equivalentaerodynamic diameter (MMEAD), commonly about 1 micron MMEAD, and moretypically about 2 micron MMEAD. Maximum particle size appropriate fordeposition within the nasal passages is often about 10 micron MMEAD,commonly about 8 micron MMEAD, and more typically about 4 micron MMEAD.Intranasally respirable powders within these size ranges can be producedby a variety of conventional techniques, such as jet milling, spraydrying, solvent precipitation, supercritical fluid condensation, and thelike. These dry powders of appropriate MMEAD can be administered to apatient via a conventional dry powder inhaler (DPI) which rely on thepatient's breath, upon pulmonary or nasal inhalation, to disperse thepower into an aerosolized amount. Alternatively, the dry powder may beadministered via air assisted devices that use an external power sourceto disperse the powder into an aerosolized amount, e.g., a piston pump.

4.4.3.2. Pharmacological Compositions Adapted for Oral/Buccal/SublingualAdministration

In various embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is formulated fororal, buccal, or sublingual administration.

Formulations for oral, buccal or sublingual administration may be in theform of capsules, cachets, pills, tablets, lozenges (using a flavoredbasis, usually sucrose and acacia or tragacanth), powders, granules, oras a solution or a suspension in an aqueous or non-aqueous liquid, or asan oil-in-water or water-in-oil liquid emulsion, or as an elixir orsyrup, or as pastilles (using an inert base, such as gelatin andglycerin, or sucrose and acacia) and/or as mouth washes and the like,each containing a predetermined amount of a subject polypeptidetherapeutic agent as an active ingredient. Suspensions, in addition tothe active compounds, may contain suspending agents such as ethoxylatedisostearyl alcohols, polyoxyethylene sorbitol, and sorbitan esters,microcrystalline cellulose, aluminum metahydroxide, bentonite, agar-agarand tragacanth, and mixtures thereof.

In solid dosage forms for oral, buccal or sublingual administration(capsules, tablets, pills, dragees, powders, granules, and the like),one or more therapeutic agents may be mixed with one or morepharmaceutically acceptable carriers, such as sodium citrate ordicalcium phosphate, and/or any of the following: (1) fillers orextenders, such as starches, lactose, sucrose, glucose, mannitol, and/orsilicic acid; (2) binders, such as, for example, carboxymethylcellulose,alginates, gelatin, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, sucrose, and/or acacia; (3)humectants, such as glycerol; (4) disintegrating agents, such asagar-agar, calcium carbonate, potato or tapioca starch, alginic acid,certain silicates, and sodium carbonate; (5) solution retarding agents,such as paraffin; (6) absorption accelerators, such as quaternaryammonium compounds; (7) wetting agents, such as, for example, cetylalcohol and glycerol monostearate; (8) absorbents, such as kaolin andbentonite clay; (9) lubricants, such a talc, calcium stearate, magnesiumstearate, solid polyethylene glycols, sodium lauryl sulfate, andmixtures thereof; and (10) coloring agents. In the case of capsules,tablets and pills, the pharmaceutical compositions may also comprisebuffering agents. Solid compositions of a similar type may also beemployed as fillers in soft and hard-filled gelatin capsules using suchexcipients as lactose or milk sugars, as well as high molecular weightpolyethylene glycols and the like. Liquid dosage forms for oraladministration include pharmaceutically acceptable emulsions,microemulsions, solutions, suspensions, syrups, and elixirs. In additionto the active ingredient, the liquid dosage forms may contain inertdiluents commonly used in the art, such as water or other solvents,solubilizing agents and emulsifiers, such as ethyl alcohol, isopropylalcohol, ethyl carbonate, ethyl acetate, benzyl alcohol, benzylbenzoate, propylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, oils (in particular,cottonseed, groundnut, corn, germ, olive, castor, and sesame oils),glycerol, tetrahydrofuryl alcohol, polyethylene glycols and fatty acidesters of sorbitan, and mixtures thereof. Besides inert diluents, theoral compositions can also include adjuvants such as wetting agents,emulsifying and suspending agents, sweetening, flavoring, coloring,perfuming, and preservative agents.

4.4.3.3. Pharmacological Compositions Adapted for Injection

In certain embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is formulated foradministration by injection.

For intravenous, intramuscular, or subcutaneous injection, or injectionat the site of affliction, the active ingredient will be in the form ofa parenterally acceptable aqueous solution which is pyrogen-free and hassuitable pH, isotonicity and stability. Those of relevant skill in theart are well able to prepare suitable solutions using, for example,isotonic vehicles such as Sodium Chloride Injection, Ringer's Injection,Lactated Ringer's Injection. Preservatives, stabilizers, buffers,antioxidants and/or other additives can be included, as required.

In various embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is provided in aunit dosage form. The unit dosage form is a vial, ampule, bottle, orpre-filled syringe. In some embodiments, the unit dosage form contains0.01 mg, 0.1 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, 25 mg, 50mg, 75 mg, or 100 mg of the cannabinoid composition. In someembodiments, the unit dosage form contains 125 mg, 150 mg, 175 mg, or200 mg of the cannabinoid composition. In some embodiments, the unitdosage form contains 250 mg of the cannabinoid composition.

In typical embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition in the unitdosage form is in liquid form. In various embodiments, the unit dosageform contains between 0.1 mL and 50 ml of the pharmaceuticalcomposition. In some embodiments, the unit dosage form contains 1 ml,2.5 ml, 5 ml, 7.5 ml, 10 ml, 25 ml, or 50 ml of pharmaceuticalcomposition.

In particular embodiments, the unit dosage form is a vial containing 1ml of the myrcene-containing mixtures at a concentration of 0.01 mg/ml,0.1 mg/ml, 0.5 mg/ml, or 1 mg/ml. In some embodiments, the unit dosageform is a vial containing 2 ml of the myrcene-containing mixture at aconcentration of 0.01 mg/ml, 0.1 mg/ml, 0.5 mg/ml, or 1 mg/ml.

In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition in the unit dosageform is in solid form, such as a lyophilate, suitable forsolubilization.

Unit dosage form embodiments suitable for subcutaneous, intradermal, orintramuscular administration include preloaded syringes, auto-injectors,and autoinject pens, each containing a predetermined amount of thepharmaceutical composition described hereinabove.

In various embodiments, the unit dosage form is a preloaded syringe,comprising a syringe and a predetermined amount of the pharmaceuticalcomposition. In certain preloaded syringe embodiments, the syringe isadapted for subcutaneous administration. In certain embodiments, thesyringe is suitable for self-administration. In particular embodiments,the preloaded syringe is a single use syringe.

In various embodiments, the preloaded syringe contains about 0.1 mL toabout 0.5 mL of the pharmaceutical composition. In certain embodiments,the syringe contains about 0.5 mL of the pharmaceutical composition. Inspecific embodiments, the syringe contains about 1.0 mL of thepharmaceutical composition. In particular embodiments, the syringecontains about 2.0 mL of the pharmaceutical composition.

In certain embodiments, the unit dosage form is an autoinject pen. Theautoinject pen comprises an autoinject pen containing a pharmaceuticalcomposition as described herein. In some embodiments, the autoinject pendelivers a predetermined volume of pharmaceutical composition. In otherembodiments, the autoinject pen is configured to deliver a volume ofpharmaceutical composition set by the user.

In various embodiments, the autoinject pen contains about 0.1 mL toabout 5.0 mL of the pharmaceutical composition. In specific embodiments,the autoinject pen contains about 0.5 mL of the pharmaceuticalcomposition. In particular embodiments, the autoinject pen containsabout 1.0 mL of the pharmaceutical composition. In other embodiments,the autoinject pen contains about 5.0 mL of the pharmaceuticalcomposition.

4.4.3.4. Pharmacological Compositions Adapted for Topical Administration

In various embodiments, the pharmaceutical formulation is formulated fortopical administration.

Pharmaceutical compositions and formulations for topical administrationmay include transdermal patches, ointments, lotions, creams, gels,drops, suppositories, sprays, liquids and powders. Conventionalpharmaceutical carriers, aqueous, powder or oily bases, thickeners andthe like may be necessary or desirable. Coated condoms, gloves and thelike may also be useful. Suitable topical formulations include those inwhich the myrcene-containing complex mixtures featured in the inventionare in admixture with a topical delivery agent such as lipids,liposomes, fatty acids, fatty acid esters, steroids, chelating agentsand surfactants. Suitable lipids and liposomes include neutral (e.g.,dioleoylphosphatidyl DOPE ethanolamine, dimyristoylphosphatidyl cholineDMPC, distearoylphosphatidyl choline) negative (e.g.,dimyristoylphosphatidyl glycerol DMPG) and cationic (e.g.,dioleoyltetramethylaminopropyl DOTAP and dioleoylphosphatidylethanolamine DOTMA). The myrcene-containing mixtures featured in theinvention may be encapsulated within liposomes or may form complexesthereto, in particular to cationic liposomes. Alternatively, themyrcene-containing mixtures may be complexed to lipids, in particular tocationic lipids. Suitable fatty acids and esters include but are notlimited to arachidonic acid, oleic acid, eicosanoic acid, lauric acid,caprylic acid, capric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid,linoleic acid, linolenic acid, dicaprate, tricaprate, monoolein,dilaurin, glyceryl 1-monocaprate, 1-dodecylazacycloheptan-2-one, anacylcarnitine, an acylcholine, or a C1-10 alkyl ester (e.g.,isopropylmyristate IPM), monoglyceride, diglyceride or pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt thereof.

4.5. Process for Preparing Active Ingredient

In some embodiments, the pharmaceutically active ingredient is preparedby mixing chemically pure myrcene, optionally one or more selectedcannabinoids, and optionally, a selected terpene, to desired finalconcentrations. Each of myrcene, selected cannabinoids, and selectedterpenes can independently be chemically synthesized, either by totalsynthesis or by synthetic modification of an intermediate, purified froma compositional mixture such as a Cannabis sativa extract, or, as in theExamples described below, purchased commercially.

In other embodiments, the pharmaceutically active ingredient is preparedfrom a starting compositional mixture by adjusting to predetermineddesired final concentrations any one or more of myrcene, optionalselected cannabinoids, and optional selected terpenes. In typicalembodiments, the starting compositional mixture is a Cannabis sativaextract. In currently preferred embodiments, the starting compositionalmixture is a Cannabis sativa extract and one or more of the myrcene,selected cannabinoids, and selected terpenes is added to the mixture toachieve predetermined desired final concentrations.

Typically, in such embodiments, the process further comprises theearlier step of determining the concentration of each desired myrcene,optional selected cannabinoid, and optional selected terpene in thestarting compositional mixture.

In certain of these embodiments, the process further comprises the stillearlier step of preparing a Cannabis sativa extract. Methods ofpreparing Cannabis sativa extracts are described in U.S. Pat. Nos.6,403,126, 8,895,078, and 9,066,910; Doorenbos et al., Cultivation,extraction, and analysis of Cannabis sativa L., Annals of The New YorkAcademy of Sciences, 191, 3-14 (1971); Fairbairn and Liebmann, Theextraction and estimation of the cannabinoids in Cannabis sativa L. andits products, Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 25, 150-155 (1973);Oroszlan and Verzar-petri, Separation, quantitation and isolation ofcannabinoids from Cannabis sativa L. by overpressured layerchromatography, Journal of Chromatography A, 388, 217-224 (1987), thedisclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in theirentireties. In particular embodiments, the extraction method is chosento provide an extract that has a content of myrcene, optional selectedcannabinoids, and optional selected terpenes that best approximates thepredetermined composition of the active ingredient.

In some embodiments, the process further comprises a first step ofselecting a Cannabis sativa strain for subsequent development as atherapeutic agent or a source of extracted compounds for therapy.

In certain embodiments, the strain selected has a typical content in theplant as a whole, or in an extractable portion thereof, of myrcene,optional selected cannabinoids, and optional selected terpenes that bestapproximates the predetermined composition of the active ingredient. Incertain embodiments, the strain selected is one that is capable ofproviding an extract that best approximates the predeterminedcomposition of the active ingredient. In specific embodiments, thestrain selected has a typical content in the plant, extractable portionthereof, or extract thereof, that best approximates the predeterminedweight ratios of desired myrcene, selected cannabinoids, and selectedterpenes. In specific embodiments, the strain selected has a typicalcontent in the plant, extractable portion thereof, or extract thereof,that requires adjustment in concentration of the fewest number of thedesired myrcene, selected cannabinoids, and selected terpenes. Inspecific embodiments, the strain selected has a typical content in theplant, extractable portion thereof, or extract thereof, that requiresthe least expensive adjustment in concentration of the desired myrcene,selected cannabinoids, and selected terpenes.

4.6. Product by Process

In typical embodiments, the pharmaceutically active ingredient isprepared by one of the processes described in Section 4.5 above.

In embodiments in which the pharmaceutically active ingredient isprepared from a starting compositional mixture by adjusting topredetermined desired final concentrations any one or more of myrcene,optional selected cannabinoids, and optional selected terpenes, allcompounds in the active ingredient other than myrcene, selectedcannabinoids, and selected terpenes are present within the startingcompositional mixture. In embodiments in which the startingcompositional mixture is a Cannabis sativa extract, all compounds in theactive ingredient other than myrcene, selected cannabinoids, andselected terpenes are present within the Cannabis sativa extract.

4.7. Dose Ranges, Generally

In vivo and/or in vitro assays may optionally be employed to helpidentify optimal dosage ranges for use. The precise dose to be employedin the formulation will also depend on the route of administration, andthe seriousness of the condition, and should be decided according to thejudgment of the practitioner and each subject's circumstances. Effectivedoses may be extrapolated from dose-response curves derived from invitro or animal model test systems.

4.8. Unit Dosage Forms

The pharmaceutical compositions may conveniently be presented in unitdosage form.

The unit dosage form will typically be adapted to one or more specificroutes of administration of the pharmaceutical composition.

In various embodiments, the unit dosage form is adapted foradministration by inhalation. In certain of these embodiments, the unitdosage form is adapted for administration by a vaporizer. In certain ofthese embodiments, the unit dosage form is adapted for administration bya nebulizer. In certain of these embodiments, the unit dosage form isadapted for administration by an aerosolizer.

In various embodiments, the unit dosage form is adapted for oraladministration, for buccal administration, or for sublingualadministration.

In some embodiments, the unit dosage form is adapted for intravenous,intramuscular, or subcutaneous administration.

In some embodiments, the unit dosage form is adapted for intrathecal orintracerebroventricular administration.

In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is formulated fortopical administration.

The amount of active ingredient which can be combined with a carriermaterial to produce a single dosage form will generally be that amountof the compound which produces a therapeutic effect.

4.9. Methods of Treatment 4.9.1. Methods of Effecting TRPV1Desensitization in Cells of a Mammalian Subject

We have demonstrated that the myrcene-containing compositions describedherein have acute agonistic effects and long-term desensitizationeffects on TRPV1. These compositions can therefore have therapeuticeffects mediated through TRPV1, either by acutely activating TRPV1,desensitizing TRPV1 by chronic application, or both. Furthermore, wehave identified specific combinations of myrcene and selectedcannabinoids and/or selected terpenes that exert significant additive orsynergistic effects on TRPV1.

Accordingly, methods are presented for effecting TRPV1 desensitizationin cells of a mammalian subject, the method comprising administering tothe subject the myrcene-containing pharmaceutical compositions describedherein in an amount, by a route of administration, and for a timesufficient to cause TRPV1 desensitization in cells within the subject.

In various embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is administeredtopically.

In various embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is administeredsystemically. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition isadministered orally, by buccal administration, or sublingually.

In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is administeredparenterally. In certain embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition isadministered intravenously. In some embodiments, the pharmaceuticalcomposition is administered subcutaneously. In some embodiments, thepharmaceutical composition is administered by inhalation.

These methods are particularly aimed at therapeutic and prophylactictreatments of mammals, and more particularly, humans.

The actual amount administered, and rate and schedule of administration,will depend on the nature and severity of disease being treated.Prescription of treatment, e.g. decisions on dosage etc., is within theresponsibility of general practitioners and other medical professionals,and typically takes account of the disorder to be treated, the conditionof the individual patient, the route of administration, the site to betreated, and other factors known to practitioners. Examples of thetechniques and protocols mentioned above can be found in Remington'sPharmaceutical Sciences, 16th edition, Osol, A. (ed), 1980.

In vivo and/or in vitro assays may optionally be employed to helpidentify optimal dosage ranges for use and routes and times foradministration. The precise dose to be employed in the formulation willalso depend on the route of administration, and the seriousness of thecondition, and should be decided according to the judgment of thepractitioner and each subject's circumstances. Effective doses andmethods of administration may be extrapolated from dose-response curvesderived from in vitro or animal model test systems.

In some embodiments, myrcene is administered in an amount less than 1 g,less than 500 mg, less than 100 mg, less than 10 mg per dose.

In the methods of treatment described herein, the myrcene-containingpharmaceutical composition can be administered alone or in combinationwith other treatments administered either simultaneously or sequentiallywith the myrcene-containing composition.

4.9.2. Methods of Treating Pain

In some embodiments, the cells to be subjected to TRPV1 desensitizationare nociceptors, and the method comprises administering to the subjectthe myrcene-containing pharmaceutical compositions described herein inan amount, by a route of administration, and for a time sufficient tocause TRPV1 desensitization in nociceptors within the subject.

In some embodiments, the nociceptors are peripheral nociceptors. Incertain of these embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition isadministered topically. In some embodiments, the pain-sensing neuronsare visceral. In certain of these embodiments, the pharmaceuticalcomposition is administered systemically.

Our in silico analyses using the GB Sciences Network PharmacologyPlatform, described below in Example 8, indicates that therapeuticefficacy of myrcene will likely extend beyond TRPV1 to other nociceptiveneurons in which the primary pain-conducting channel is a distinct TRP.

Accordingly, in a related aspect, methods are provided for treating painin a mammalian subject. The method comprises administering to thesubject the myrcene-containing pharmaceutical compositions describedherein in an amount, by a route of administration, and for a timesufficient to reduce pain.

In certain embodiments, the pain is neuropathic pain. In particularembodiments, the neuropathic pain is diabetic peripheral neuropathicpain. In particular embodiments, the pain is post-herpetic neuralgia. Inparticular embodiments, the pain is trigeminal neuralgia.

In some embodiments, the subject has pain related to or caused bystrains, sprains, arthritis or other joint pain, bruising, backaches,fibromyalgia, endometriosis, surgery, migraine, cluster headaches,psoriasis, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic interstitial cystitis,vulvodynia, trauma, musculoskeletal disorders, shingles, sickle celldisease, heart disease, cancer, stroke, or mouth sores or ulceration dueto chemotherapy or radiation.

In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is administered atleast once a day for at least 3 days. In some embodiments, thepharmaceutical composition is administered at least once a day for atleast 5 days. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition isadministered at least once a day for at least 7 days. In someembodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is administered at leastonce a day for more than 7 days.

In various embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is administeredat a dose, by a route of administration, and on a schedule sufficient tomaintain effective levels of myrcene at the nociceptors for at least 3days, at least 5 days, or at least 7 days.

4.9.3. Methods of Treating Cardiac Hypertrophy

In another aspect, methods of treating cardiac hypertrophy in amammalian subject are provided. The methods comprise administering tothe subject an anti-hypertrophic effective amount of themyrcene-containing pharmaceutical compositions described herein.

In typical embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is administeredsystemically.

In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is administeredintravenously. In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition isadministered subcutaneously. In some embodiments, the pharmaceuticalcomposition is administered by inhalation. In some embodiments, thepharmaceutical composition is administered orally.

4.9.4. Methods of Prophylactic Treatment for Cardiac Hypertrophy

In another aspect, methods of prophylactic treatment for cardiachypertrophy in a mammalian subject are provided. The methods compriseadministering to a subject at risk of cardiac hypertrophy ananti-hypertrophic effective amount of the myrcene-containingpharmaceutical compositions described herein.

4.9.5. Methods of Treating Overactive Bladder

In another aspect, methods of treating overactive bladder in a mammaliansubject, are provided. The methods comprise administering to the subjecta therapeutically effective amount of the myrcene-containingpharmaceutical compositions described herein.

In typical embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is administeredsystemically.

4.9.6. Methods of Treating Refractory Chronic Cough

In another aspect, methods of treating refractory chronic cough areprovided, the methods comprising administering to the subject atherapeutically effective amount of the myrcene-containingpharmaceutical composition described herein.

In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is administeredsystemically.

In some embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition is administered byinhalation.

4.9.7. Methods of Treating Disorders with TRPV1 Etiology

In another aspect, diseases or disorders that are treated with themyrcene-containing pharmaceutical compositions described herein includediseases related to abnormal function of TRPV1. The diseases can berelated to abnormal activation, suppression, or dysregulation of TRPV1.In some embodiments, the diseases are related to abnormal expression ormutation of the gene encoding TRPV1.

In some embodiments, diseases treated with the myrcene-containingpharmaceutical compositions described herein are diseases related toabnormal synthesis of an endogenous TRPV1 agonist.

4.10. Examples

The following examples are provided by way of illustration notlimitation.

4.10.1. Example 1: Mixtures Comprising Terpenes, Cannabinoids, and BothTerpenes and Cannabinoids

We prepared a complex mixture of cannabinoids and terpenes, the Strain AMixture, based upon the actual chemo-profile of a Cannabis sativacultivar currently used medicinally in Nevada, USA. Strain chemo-profiledata was expressed as % mass and mg/g abundance, and these amounts wereconverted to amounts to be included in the mixture. The actualchemo-profile was modified in the Strain A Mixture by deliberateomission of THC and THCA and omission of certain labile or insolublecomponents. We also prepared complex mixtures containing subsets of thecompounds in the Strain A Mixture: CBMIX, Cannabinoid Mixture andTerpene Mixture.

All mixtures were prepared by mixing individual components as specifiedbelow in Table 1. The Table provides percentage ratios of individualcomponents by weight included in each mixture (Ratio, %). It alsoprovides final concentrations of each component applied to the cellculture in the experiments described below (Conc., μg/ml).

TABLE 1 Strain A Cannabinoid Terpene Mixture CBMIX Mixture Mixture RatioConc. Ratio Conc. Ratio Conc. Ratio Conc. (%) (μg/ml) (%) (μg/ml) (%)(μg/ml) (%) (μg/ml) Cannabidivarin 7.42 5.6 8.40 5.6 14.56 5.6 0.00 0(CBDV) Cannabichromene 1.92 1.45 2.17 1.45 3.77 1.45 0.00 0 (CBC)Cannabidiol 7.29 5.5 8.25 5.5 14.30 5.5 0.00 0 (CBD) Cannabidiolic Acid4.57 3.45 5.17 3.45 8.97 3.45 0.00 0 (CBDA) Cannabigerol 3.64 2.75 4.122.75 7.15 2.75 0.00 0 (CBG) Cannabigerolic Acid 24.52 18.5 27.74 18.548.11 18.5 0.00 0 CBGA) Cannabinol 1.59 1.2 1.80 1.2 3.12 1.2 0.00 0(CBN) alpha-Bisabolol 2.58 1.95 2.92 1.95 0.00 0 5.27 1.95alpha-Humulene 6.03 4.55 6.82 4.55 0.00 0 12.30 4.55 α-Pinene 0.66 0.50.75 0.5 0.00 0 1.35 0.5 β-Caryophyllene 14.18 10.7 16.04 10.7 0.00 028.92 10.7 beta-Myrcene 11.60 8.75 0.00 0 0.00 0 23.65 8.75(+)-beta-Pinene 1.33 1 1.50 1 0.00 0 2.70 1 Camphene 0.20 0.15 0.22 0.150.00 0 0.41 0.15 Limonene 7.09 5.35 8.02 5.35 0.00 0 14.46 5.35 Linalool2.39 1.8 2.70 1.8 0.00 0 4.86 1.8 Nerolidol 2.85 2.15 3.22 2.15 0.00 05.81 2.15 Ocimene 0.13 0.1 0.15 0.1 0.00 0 0.27 0.1

Individual components were obtained from various vendors—for example,nerolidol from Tokyo Chemical Industry (# N0454), linalool from TokyoChemical Industry (# L0048), alpha-pinene from Sigma Aldrich (# P45680),limonene from MP Biomedicals (#155234), phytol from Ultr Scientific (#FLMS-035), cannabidivarin from Sigma Aldrich (# C-140), cannabichromenefrom Sigma Aldrich (# C-143), cannabidiol from Sigma Aldrich (# C-045),cannabigerol from Sigma Aldrich (# C-141) and cannabinol from SigmaAldrich (# C-046). Myrcene, manufactured by MP Biomedical, was obtainedfrom VWR, product # M0235. Each component was mixed as specified abovein Table 1.

4.10.2. Example 2: Cell Culture System for Testing TRPV1-MediatedCalcium Response

The HEK293 cell line was stably transfected with the pcDNA6TR(Invitrogen, CA) plasmid (encoding the tetracycline-sensitive TRExrepressor protein), and was maintained in DMEM+10% fetal bovine serum(inactivated at 55° C. for 1 h)+2 mM glutamine in humidified 5% CO₂atmosphere at 37° C. Selection pressure on the TRex 293 cells wasmaintained by continuous culture in 10 μg/ml Blasticidin (Sigma, StLouis, Mo.).

For production of TRex HEK293 cells with inducible expression of TRPV1,parental cells were electroporated with the rat TRPV1 cDNA in thepcDNA4TO vector and clonal cell lines were selected by limiting dilutionin the presence of 400 μg/ml zeocin (Invitrogen, CA). TRPV1 expressionwas induced using 1 μg/ml tetracycline for 16 h at 37° C. Stable lineswere screened for inducible protein expression using anti-FLAG Westernblot, and inducible expression was confirmed. Electrophysiologicalmeasurements further confirmed the presence and UV curve ‘signature’ ofTRPV1 in these induced cells. Furthermore, capsaicin-specific calciumfluxes provided in FIG. 1 also confirmed expression and specificresponse of TRPV1 in the cells, because the calcium flux was notdetected in HEK wild type cells without a construct encoding TRPV1.

Calcium responses mediated by TRPV1 were tested by calcium assay in thecell culture system. Cells were washed and incubated with 0.2 μM fluo-4acetoxymethyl ester (“Fluo-4”) for 30 minutes at 37° C. in a standardmodified Ringer's solution of the following composition (in mM): NaCl145, KCl 2.8, CsCl 10, CaCl2 10, MgCl2 2, glucose 10, Hepes.NaOH 10, pH7.4, 330 mOsm. Cells were transferred to 96-well plates at 50,000cells/well and stimulated as indicated. Calcium signals were acquiredusing a Flexstation 3 (Molecular Devices, Sunnydale, USA). Data wasanalyzed using SoftMax® Pro 5 (Molecular Devices). Where indicated,nominally calcium-free external conditions were achieved by thepreparation of 0 mM CaCl₂) Ringer solution containing 1 mM EGTA. Whereindicated, capsaicin (10 μM) and ionomycin (500 nM) were used aspositive controls to induce calcium responses. Capsazepine (10 μM) wasused where indicated to specifically antagonize TRPV1-mediated calciumresponses. Where indicated, baseline traces (no stimulation, NS) weresubtracted. Where indicated, vehicle alone traces were subtracted. Whereindicated, vehicle comprising various diluents matched to correspondingmixtures was used as a negative control.

4.10.3. Example 3: TRPV1-Mediated Calcium Influx in Response to Strain AMixture, Cannabinoid Mixture, or Terpene Mixture

TRPV1-mediated calcium influx was tested in response to the Strain AMixture, Cannabinoid Mixture and Terpene Mixture as described above.Each mixture was applied to the cell culture medium to expose the cellsto final concentrations of individual components as provided in Table 1(“Conc. μg/ml”). For example, the Strain A Mixture was applied to exposethe cells to 5.6 μg/ml of cannabidivarin (CBDV), 8.75 μg/ml of myrcene,etc.

FIGS. 2A-C provide calcium flux data measured as Fluo-4 relativefluorescence unit (Fluo-4 RFU) over time (sec). As provided in FIGS.2A-C, significant calcium fluxes were observed in response toapplication of the Strain A Mixture (FIG. 2A), and the Terpene Mixture(FIG. 2C), but less so in response to application of the CannabinoidMixture (FIG. 2B). The calcium fluxes were not detected in the absenceof stimuli (“NS”) or in response to application of vehicle (“veh”)(FIGS. 2A-C).

When wild-type HEK cells without the TRPV1 construct were presented withthe same stimulus conditions, calcium fluxes were not observed (FIGS.5A-5C). These data demonstrate that the calcium influxes in response tothe Strain A Mixture, the Cannabinoid Mixture, or the Terpene Mixtureare specific to and mediated by TRPV1.

4.10.4. Example 4: TRPV1-Mediated Calcium Influx in Response toIndividual Terpenes

Because the Terpene Mixture was identified in Example 3 to be largelyresponsible for the TRPV1-agonistic effects of the Strain A Mixture (seeFIGS. 2A-2C), TRPV1-mediated calcium influx was tested in response toindividual components of the Terpene Mixture. Each component was appliedin the cell culture medium, while fluorescence signals were monitored.Fluorescence signals measured over time are presented in FIGS. 3B-3L forindividual terpene compounds.

Significant calcium influx was detected in response to some, but notall, of the terpene compounds tested. In particular, significant calciumflux was detected in response to myrcene (FIG. 3D) and nerolidol (FIG.31).

When TRPV1-agonistic effects were compared between myrcene alone and theTerpene Mixture, myrcene was seen to contribute significantly toTRPV1-mediated calcium response, but did not account for 100% of thecalcium influx signal. As shown in FIG. 4, the Terpene Mixture (solidcurve) had more significant effects than myrcene alone (dotted curve).This suggests that some terpenes, including nerolidol, may have additiveor synergistic effects on TRPV1 when applied with myrcene.

4.10.5. Example 5: Activation of TRPV1 by Myrcene

Myrcene's agonistic effects on TRPV1 were further tested under variousconditions. First, TRPV1-mediated calcium flux was tested in response todifferent concentrations of myrcene (3.5 μg/ml, 1.75 μg/ml, 0.875 μg/mland 0.43 μg/ml). As illustrated in FIGS. 6A-6D, calcium responses tomyrcene were dose-dependent, with the largest flux in response to 3.5μg/ml of myrcene and the smallest flux in response to 0.43 μg/ml ofmyrcene. The calcium flux was much smaller in the wild-type HEK cellculture (dotted curves in FIGS. 6A-6D), demonstrating that myrceneinduces calcium flux through TRPV1 channel.

Myrcene's agonistic effects on TRPV1 was further confirmed by applyingTRPV1 inhibitor, 10 μM of capsazepine, in the cells activated with 3.5μg/ml myrcene. As provided in FIG. 7A, calcium flux induced by myrcenediminished in response to capsazepine. As shown in FIG. 7B, calcium fluxdid not change in response to PBS, applied as a control. The datademonstrate that myrcene induces calcium flux by activating TRPV1.

Activation of TRPV1 by myrcene was also tested under calcium-free mediumconditions. Under these conditions, low concentrations of myrcene (0.43μg/ml, 0.875 μg/ml and 1.75 μg/ml) did not cause increase ofcalcium-mediated fluorescence (see FIGS. 8B, 8C, 8D), whereas a highconcentration of myrcene (3.5 μg/ml) induced such increase (FIG. 8A).This suggests that myrcene induces calcium flux mostly fromextracellular buffer at low concentrations, but can induce calcium fluxinto the cytosol from intracellular stores at high concentrations. Bothextracellular and intracellular fluxes rely on TRPV1, since calciuminflux was not observed or were only minimal in wild-type HEK cellswithout TRPV1 (dotted curves in FIGS. 8A-8D).

To confirm and further investigate the activation of TRPV1 by myrcene,channel currents were assessed via patch clamp experiments in singleHEK293 cells overexpressing rat TRPV1. HEK293 cells were kept insodium-based extracellular Ringer's solution containing 140 mM NaCl, 1mM CaCl₂), 2 mM MgCl₂, 2.8 mM KCl, 11 mM glucose, and 10 mM HEPES-NaOH,pH 7.2 and osmolarity 300 mOsmol. The cells' cytosol was perfused withintracellular patch pipette solution containing 140 mM Cs-glutamate, 8mM NaCl, 1 mM MgCl₂, 3 mM MgATP, and 10 mM HEPES-CsOH. The standardinternal Ca²⁺ concentration was buffered to 180 nM with 4 mM Ca and 10mM BAPTA. The level of free unbuffered Ca was adjusted using thecalculator provided with WebMaxC(http://www.stanford.edu/˜cpatton/webmaxcS.htm). The pH of the finalsolution was adjusted to pH 7.2 and osmolarity measured at 300 mOsmol.

TRPV1 channels were activated by adding 5 μM, 10 μM, or 150 μM myrceneto the extracellular solution. 1 μM capsaicin was used as a positivecontrol for TRPV1 activation. Rapid extracellular solution applicationand exchange was performed with the SmartSquirt delivery system(Auto-Mate Scientific, San Francisco). The system includes a ValveLinkTTL interface between the electronic valves and the EPC-9 amplifier(HEKA, Lambrecht, Germany). This configuration allows for programmablesolution changes via the PatchMaster software (HEKA, Lambrecht,Germany).

Patch-clamp experiments were performed in the whole-cell configurationat 21-25° C. Patch pipettes had resistances of 2-3 MΩ. Data was acquiredwith PatchMaster software controlling an EPC-9 amplifier. Voltage rampsof 50 ms spanning the voltage range from −100 to 100 mV were deliveredfrom a holding potential of 0 mV at a rate of 0.5 Hz over a period of500 ms. Voltages were corrected for a liquid junction potential of 10mV. Currents were filtered at 2.9 kHz and digitized at 100 μs intervals.Capacitive currents were determined and corrected before each voltageramp. The development of currents for a given potential was extractedfrom individual ramp current records by measuring the current amplitudesat voltages of −80 mV and +80 mV. Data were analyzed with FitMaster(HEKA, Lambrecht, Germany), and IgorPro (WaveMetrics, Lake Oswego,Oreg., USA). Where applicable, statistical errors of averaged data aregiven as mean±s.e.m.

As shown in FIGS. 19A-19C, myrcene induced a dose-dependent response inindividual cells. Inward and outward current development is shown overtime. Each data point (DP) corresponds to approximately 1 second. 5 μM(FIG. 19A), 10 μM (FIG. 19B), and 150 μM (FIG. 19C) myrcene induced0.5-2.2 nA current compared to 4-10 nA current induced by application of1 μM capsaicin (not shown). Increasing doses of myrcene result in aninwardly rectifying non-selective cation current which inactivated in amanner dependent both on activation current amplitude (FIGS. 19A-19C)and calcium influx (data not shown).

FIG. 20A shows the same experiment as FIG. 19A, but with the addition ofcapsaicin after the myrcene application. HEK293 cells overexpressing ratTRPV1 were equilibrated in extracellular Ringer's solution containing 1mM Ca. The extracellular buffer was exchanged for buffer containing 5 μMmyrcene at datapoint (DP) 60. The myrcene solution was exchanged forextracellular buffer containing 1 μM capsaicin at DP 120. Inward andoutward currents (nA) were measured at each DP. FIG. 20A shows theaverage inward and outward currents of 6 independent experiments. 5 μMmyrcene induced an approximately 0.5 nA inward current over time, while1 μM capsaicin induced an approximately 9 nA inward current. Bothmyrcene and capsaicin also induced an outward current at a loweramplitude than the inward current. FIG. 20B shows a magnified view ofthe myrcene-induced current.

Next, the relationship between the myrcene- and capsaicin-inducedcurrent and the experimental voltage was analyzed. Voltage ramps wereperformed at data points 1, 59, 119, and 179 (FIG. 20A, arrows 1-4 IV),and the IV relationship assessed before and after addition of myrceneand capsaicin (FIGS. 20C-E). FIG. 20C shows the break-in current (“1 IV”on FIG. 20A) of the cell and the early current development (“2 IV” onFIG. 20A) in the presence of Ringer's solution. FIG. 20D shows themyrcene-induced TRPV1 activation (“3 IV” on FIG. 20A). FIG. 20E showsthe capsaicin-induced TRPV1 activation (“4 IV” on FIG. 20A).

Capsaicin is a TRPV1 agonist known to selectively increase Ca²⁺ ionpermeability of the TRPV1 channel. The channel's permeation propertieshave been previously documented in two states. State 1 for thisnon-selective cation channel (NSCC) is marginal or no selectivity forcalcium over sodium. State 2 (the dilated or transition state)represents an attained state where pore properties have changed topermeate large cations (for example NMDG) and support correspondinglylarge fluxes of calcium and sodium. The transition from State 1 to State2 is characterized by a marked linearization of the IV curve withcorrespondingly larger inward currents than in State 1. FIG. 19 and FIG.20 shows that myrcene is a strong activator of TRPV1, producing nAcurrents. In contrast to capsaicin, myrcene activates the channelprimarily in State 1. The differences between the myrcene-induced andcapsaicin-induced TRPV1 activation properties suggest that theamplitude, selectivity and therefore physiological outcomes of TRPV1activation can be manipulated in a rational manner based on differentialelectrophysiological characteristics of TRPV1-mediated responses tomyrcene as opposed to the conventional ligand capsaicin.

4.10.6. Example 6: Effects of Non-Myrcene Components of the Strain AMixture on TRPV1

Since myrcene alone could not explain all the TRPV1 agonistic effects ofthe Strain A Mixture, effects of individual cannabinoids and CBMIX(i.e., the Strain A Mixtures not including myrcene) on TRPV1 werefurther studied to understand the remaining TRPV1-agonistic effects ofthe Strain A Mixture.

First, individual cannabinoids were applied in the cell culture medium,while fluorescence signals were monitored. FIGS. 9A-9G illustrate thatcannabinoids differentially contribute to calcium fluxes via TRPV1.Modest calcium responses were detected in response to some, but not all,cannabinoid compounds. In particular, calcium flux was detected inresponse to cannabidivarin (CBDV), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabidiol(CBD), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), and cannabigerolic acid (CBGA). Suchcalcium responses were only minimal or absent in cells without TRPV1,demonstrating that the calcium response is mediated by TRPV1.

Having observed that (i) myrcene contributes significantly to theTRPV1-mediated calcium response, but did not account for 100% of thecalcium influx signal of the Terpene Mixture (FIG. 4); and (ii) that theTerpene Mixture in turn contributes to the TRPV1-mediated calciumresponse, but did not account for 100% of the calcium influx signal ofthe Strain A Mixture (FIGS. 2A-2C), we tested whether a mixture ofcannabinoids and terpenes of the Strain A Mixture excluding myrcene(“CBMIX”), affected multidrug resistance protein (MRP)-mediated exportof myrcene, the bioactive ligand. As provided in FIG. 10, application ofCBMIX significantly suppressed MRP-mediated export of fluorescent markerCFDA. Not wishing to be bound by a theory, this suggests that themixture of terpenes and cannabinoids in CBMIX can enhanceTRPV1-agonistic effects of myrcene by blocking MRP-mediated export ofmyrcene. For example, CBMIX can delay the efflux of myrcene from thecell and increase the specific activity of myrcene per unit dose.

4.10.7. Example 7: Desensitization of TRPV1 by Myrcene

TRPV1-agonistic effects of myrcene and capsaicin were compared invarious concentrations. Specifically, area under curve (AUC) of thecalcium response curve for myrcene and capsaicin were separatelycalculated and plotted over corresponding concentrations in FIG. 14A.Higher concentrations of myrcene were needed to induce the same calciuminflux as capsaicin. For example, about 200 nM of myrcene and about 30nM capsaicin induced calcium influx to a similar degree, when the degreeof calcium influx is determined based on the AUC between 20 and 300 nMof their calcium response curves.

Long-term effects on TRPV1 were also compared between myrcene andcapsaicin. As provided in FIG. 14B, both myrcene and capsaicin induceddesensitization of TRPV1 after exposure to each compound for 24 hours.For example, when myrcene was first introduced to TRPV1-expressingcells, myrcene induced calcium flux to generate a response curve withAUC (between 20-300 nM) of 66. However, after the cells were incubatedwith myrcene for 24 hours, myrcene induced calcium response with AUC of32. Thus, pre-incubation with myrcene suppressed later calcium responseby 52%. Similarly, when capsaicin was first introduced toTRPV1-expressing cells, capsaicin induced calcium influx to generate aresponse curve with AUC of 124. After the cells were incubated withcapsaicin for 24 hours, capsaicin induced calcium response with AUC of38. Thus, pre-incubation with capsaicin suppressed later calciumresponse by 69%.

Long-term desensitization effects of myrcene and capsaicin on TRPV1 werecompared with long-term effects of ionomycin as a control compound. Aswith myrcene or capsaicin, an initial application of ionomycin inducedcalcium influx to generate a response curve with AUC of 128. However,long-term desensitization effects of ionomycin were smaller than myrceneor capsaicin. As provided in FIG. 14B, pre-incubation with 500 nM ofionomycin reduced later calcium influx in response to myrcene orcapsaicin only by 27% or 38%, respectively.

The data suggest that myrcene is an effective TRPV1 agonist that worksin a similar way as capsaicin. Myrcene can induce TRPV1-mediated calciuminflux after a short exposure, and desensitization of TRPV1 after aprolonged exposure. This suggests that myrcene can be used as aneffective TRPV1 agonist to treat various diseases associated with TRPV1,and for which capsaicin is currently used for treatment. Myrcene canreplace capsaicin as a pharmaceutically active ingredient for variousindications.

4.10.8. Example 8: Network Pharmacology Platform

In order to assess whether myrcene and nerolidol, the two terpenes inour original Cannabis Strain A Mixture with significant TRPV1 agonisteffects, had effects at other TRP channels, we developed an in silicoprediction approach, termed the GB Sciences Network PharmacologyPlatform.

Node and edge data was pulled from thehttp://bionet.ncpsb.org/batman-tcm/result page source. The data containsource and target information as well as group assignments used togenerate Cytoscape network graphs on the website. The node and edge textfiles were loaded into the R statistical analysis program as commaseparated files (csv).

Files were cleaned of superfluous labeling and special characters andthen arranged into node and edge data frames with clearly definedvariable columns and observation rows using the dplyr library. Node datawas reassigned group designations as per the Batman assignments andsorted in alpha order also using the dplyr library. The edge data framewas used to generate a directed network data object using the networklibrary. The network object has two variables added to it: (i) thesorted group assignments from the node data frame, and (ii) the Freemandegree attribute which is calculated from the edge list and assigned toeach node using the sna library. Network graphing was rendered throughgraphing interpreters from the ggnetwork and ggrepel libraries, whichrender graphs from the network object and use formatting arguments forstyle.

FIG. 16A shows the target analysis and disease-prediction network formyrcene. The presence of multiple TRP channels in the network indicatesthat efficacy of myrcene will likely extend beyond TRPV1 to othernociceptive neurons in which the primary pain-conducting channel is adistinct TRP. FIG. 16B shows the target analysis and disease-predictionnetwork for nerolidol. The presence of multiple TRP channels in thenetwork indicates that efficacy of nerolidol does not significantly addTRP channels for which myrcene is not indicated.

FIG. 11 illustrates that Therapeutic Target Database (TD) enrichmentanalysis tends to prioritize myrcene over nerolidol for development inpain and cardiovascular indications. In addition, myrcene contributessignificantly to the predicted disease target set for native Cannabis.

FIG. 12 illustrates that diverse ion channel targets are predicted fordirect or indirect modulation by myrcene.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

All publications, patents, patent applications and other documents citedin this application are hereby incorporated by reference in theirentireties for all purposes to the same extent as if each individualpublication, patent, patent application or other document wereindividually indicated to be incorporated by reference for all purposes.

EQUIVALENTS

While various specific embodiments have been illustrated and described,the above specification is not restrictive. It will be appreciated thatvarious changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scopeof the invention(s). Many variations will become apparent to thoseskilled in the art upon review of this specification.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of effecting TRPV1 desensitization incells of a mammalian subject with a pain disorder, the methodcomprising: administering to the subject a pharmaceutical composition,in an amount, by a route of administration, and for a time sufficient tocause TRPV1 desensitization in cells within the subject, therebytreating the pain disorder; wherein the pharmaceutical compositioncomprises myrcene, at least one other terpene, and a pharmaceuticallyacceptable carrier or diluent; wherein the composition is substantiallyfree of cannabinoids; and wherein the pain disorder is selected from thegroup consisting of shingles, sickle cell disease, arthritis pain,irritable bowel syndrome, and endometriosis.
 2. The method of claim 1,wherein the pharmaceutical composition is administered topically.
 3. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the composition comprises no more than 15species of terpene compounds.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein thecomposition comprises no more than 10 species of terpene compounds. 5.The method of claim 1, wherein the composition comprises no more than 5species of terpene compounds.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein theterpene compounds other than myrcene are present in amounts that areeffective to increase myrcene-dependent TRPV1 calcium flux.
 7. Themethod of claim 1 wherein myrcene is present in an amount that is atleast 10%, 20%, 25%, 50%, 75%, or 90% (w/w) of the total content ofterpenes.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one terpeneother than myrcene is nerolidol.
 9. The method of claim 8, whereinnerolidol is present in an amount that is at least 2% (w/w) of the totalcontent of terpenes.
 10. The method of claim 9, wherein nerolidol ispresent in an amount that is at least 2.5% (w/w) of the total content ofterpenes.
 11. The method of claim 10, wherein nerolidol is present in anamount that is at least 5% (w/w) of the total content of terpenes. 12.The method of claim 11, wherein nerolidol is present in an amount thatis at least 7.5%, or 10% (w/w) of the total content of terpenes.
 13. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the cells are nociceptors, peripheralnociceptors, or visceral nociceptors.
 14. The method of claim 1, whereinthe composition is administered systemically, intravenously,subcutaneously, or by inhalation.
 15. The method of claim 1, wherein thecomposition is administered at least once a day for at least 3 days. 16.The method of claim 1, wherein the composition is administered at leastonce a day for at least 7 days.
 17. The method of claim 1, wherein thecomposition is administered at a dose, by a route of administration, andon a schedule sufficient to maintain effective levels of myrcene at thenociceptors for at least 3 days.
 18. The method of claim 17, wherein thecomposition is administered at a dose, by a route of administration, andon a schedule sufficient to maintain effective levels of myrcene at thenociceptors for at least 7 days.
 19. The method of claim 1, wherein thepain disorder is shingles.
 20. The method of claim 1, wherein the paindisorder is sickle-cell disease.
 21. The method of claim 1, wherein thepain disorder is arthritis pain.
 22. The method of claim 1, wherein thepain disorder is irritable bowel syndrome.
 23. The method of claim 1,wherein the pain disorder is endometriosis.